New GP appraisal system launched

The
nation’s 28,000 GPs now have to be appraised by another doctor as part of an
NHS drive to ensure more responsive, higher quality patient care.

The
new assessments, developed with the British Medical Association General
Practitioners Committee, aim to benefit GPs by providing feedback on past
performance and identifying areas for future development.

GPs
will be trained in how to appraise other doctors and the system will be
effective from April. At the end of the appraisal discussion, each GP will
agree an individual personal development plan with the appraiser and this will
set out their key development objectives for the future.

Health
minister John Hutton said: "Appraisal is a plus for GPs and patients. It
will provide an opportunity for GPs to discuss the support they need to fulfil
core services.

"In
turn patients will have greater confidence that their GP is receiving adequate
support, is practising in the most up-to-date ways and is delivering high
quality care."

The
new appraisal will play a vital role in five yearly revalidation for doctors,
which is due to be introduced by the General Medical Council.